In a recent announcement, Melinda French Gates revealed her decision to step down as co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
According to Reuters, her departure is scheduled for June 7, as stated in her post on X.
This development came after the billionaire benefactors Bill and Melinda Gates, co-founders of one of the world's largest private charitable foundations, filed for divorce in 2021 following 27 years of marriage.
Despite their separation, they have pledged to continue their philanthropic endeavors together.
The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, known for its massive contributions to global public health, has allocated over $50 billion in the past two decades to address poverty and disease using a business-minded approach.
Why Melinda Gates Resigned
Melinda Gates did not give a reason for her resignation as co-chair, but she admitted that the decision was not taken lightly.
NDTV reports that Melinda will still move into the "next chapter of my philanthropy." As part of her agreement with Bill, she will have an additional $12.5 billion to continue her charity work.
For now, Melinda's plan is to focus on improving the lives of women and families globally, particularly amid challenges to women's rights.
The foundation will be renamed the Gates Foundation to honor Bill Sr.'s legacy and Melinda's contributions. Bill will assume the sole Chair position.
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